Sports Direct to open 40,000 sq ft store at Trafford Palazzo

Frasers Group’s Sports Direct is set to open a new store at Trafford Palazzo, after agreeing a long-term lease at the Manchester scheme.

Thee sporting retailer’s store – which is set to open in early 2025 – will span 40,000 sq ft across two floors and be located at the entrance to the link bridge that connects to The Trafford Centre.

Sports Direct at Trafford Palazzo will offer products from leading brands such as Nike, Adidas, Puma, and ASICS. It will also feature specialist sporting areas for running, football, and outdoor, as well as products from brands in the wider Frasers Group ecosystem including USC, GAME and Jack Wills.

Mark Whittaker, managing director at scheme owner Peel Retail & Leisure, said: “This is a significant signing for Trafford Palazzo and a brand that continues to have real pull with consumers. Through a clear strategy of transforming Trafford Palazzo into a destination that delivers experiences as well as selective shopping, we have secured a unique mix of occupiers who are delivering flagship and new concept stores, which in turn is boosting our visitor numbers.

“Our vision is to attract best in class operators, and we have no doubt Sports Direct’s new concept will enhance and complement our offering in both the centre and the wider TraffordCity destination.”

Trafford Palazzo, situated at the heart of TraffordCity, offers 350,000 sq. ft of retail and leisure space. Anchor tenants include Primark, Sealife, and Legoland, which have recently been joined by up-and-coming brands and experiences, such as NERF AX, King Pins, and the soon-to-open rollerskating concept Archie’s Atomic.